The SUBARU FB16A is a 1,599 cc, flat-four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2020. It features DOHC, 16-valve configuration with direct fuel injection and naturally aspirated aspiration. Rated at 84 kW (114 PS) and 150 Nm of torque, this engine was developed for compact efficiency in front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive applications.
Fitted to select European-market Subarus including the XV (Crosstrek), Impreza, and Levorg, the FB16A was engineered for responsive city driving while maintaining AWD compatibility across platform variants. Emissions compliance was achieved through close-coupled three-way catalytic converters and oxygen sensor feedback control, meeting Euro 5 standards for its production run.
One documented reliability concern is premature timing chain wear, particularly in early production units before 2015. This issue, referenced in Subaru Service Information Bulletin 15-03-01, is attributed to insufficient lubrication at the chain tensioner during cold starts. In 2015, Subaru revised the oil rail design and upgraded the tensioner material, enhancing durability in later models.
Subaru
Production years 2012–2020 meet Euro 5 emissions standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FB16A).
The SUBARU FB16A is a 1,599 cc flat-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2012–2020). It combines DOHC architecture with direct fuel injection to deliver responsive throttle response and high fuel efficiency. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances urban drivability with low CO₂ emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,599 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Flat-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 83.5 mm | |
| Power output | 84 kW (114 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Direct fuel injection (D-4S) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Dual-row roller chain (non-interference design) | |
| Oil type | SAE 0W-20 | |
| Dry weight | 135 kg |
The naturally aspirated flat-four delivers predictable low-RPM power ideal for city commuting but requires adherence to 150,000 km timing chain inspection intervals to prevent wear. SAE 0W-20 oil is essential due to its compatibility with direct injection systems and low-friction requirements. Extended idling or aggressive driving accelerates wear in pre-2015 engines with original-spec tensioners. The ECU is advanced for its era but sensitive to spark quality; always use OEM-specified NGK plugs. Post-2015 models feature revised oil rails and tensioner per Subaru SIB 15-03-01, significantly enhancing long-term reliability.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 0W-20 specification (Subaru SIB 15-03-01). API SN/ILSAC GF-5 compatible oils acceptable.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all models (2012–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/FB16A).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities (Subaru TIS Doc. S111100).
Subaru Technical Information System (TIS): Docs S111100, S111140, S111200, SIB 15-03-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/FB16A)
JIS D 1001 Engine Power Test Code
The SUBARU FB16A was used across SUBARU's XV/Impreza platforms with longitudinal mounting and no direct licensing partnerships. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced mounts in the XV 2.0i-L and shorter accessory drives in the Impreza 5-door-and from 2020 the facelifted XV adopted the FB20 with revised intake manifolds, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block near the distributor (Subaru TIS S111200). The 4th digit of the VIN indicates engine family ('B' for FB series). Pre-2015 models have silver valve covers with "FB16" branding; post-2015 units use black valve covers with "FB16" branding. Critical differentiation from FB20: FB16A uses 1.6L displacement; FB20 uses 2.0L with revised intake. Service parts require production date verification - tensioners for engines before 08/2015 are incompatible with later units due to internal redesign (Subaru SIB 15-03-01).
The FB16A's primary reliability risk is timing chain wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. Internal Subaru quality reports from 2015 noted a significant share of pre-2015 engines requiring tensioner replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show low emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Extended high-load operation and insufficient warm-up increase chain stress, making oil quality and operational procedure critical.
Analysis derived from Subaru technical bulletins (2012-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2025). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about SUBARU FB16A.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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SUBARU Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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